Leeds vs Chelsea: Key Players and Predictions for Crucial Clash

The English football season continues this weekend with a full schedule of Premier League and EFL Championship fixtures. Among the matches, the EFL Championship encounter between Leeds United and Chelsea is notable as it involves a top-tier club in cup competition. The match is set to take place at Elland Road.

Main News

Leeds United will host Chelsea at Elland Road on Wednesday, February 28th, in the FA Cup fifth round. The match is scheduled for a 7:30 pm GMT kickoff.

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke provided a team news update. Defender Pascal Struijk remains out due to injury. Forward Patrick Bamford is a doubt for the match and will undergo a late fitness assessment.

For Chelsea, manager Mauricio Pochettino confirmed several player absences. Defenders Marc Cucurella, Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Benoit Badiashile are all unavailable due to injuries. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is also ruled out.

The predicted starting lineup for Leeds includes Meslier in goal, with a defensive line of Gray, Rodon, Ampadu, and Firpo. The midfield is expected to feature Kamara, Gruev, and Summerville, with Rutter and Gnonto supporting forward Piroe.

Chelsea’s predicted lineup lists Petrovic as goalkeeper. A back four of Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, and Chilwell is anticipated. The midfield could see Fernandez, Caicedo, and Gallagher, with Palmer, Jackson, and Sterling in attacking roles.

Summary

Leeds United and Chelsea are set to meet in the FA Cup fifth round at Elland Road on February 28th. Both teams are dealing with player absences ahead of the knockout match.

Leeds manager Daniel Farke reported that defender Pascal Struijk is injured and striker Patrick Bamford is a doubt. Chelsea’s Mauricio Pochettino confirmed a longer injury list, including several defenders and a goalkeeper.

The predicted lineups suggest both sides will field strong teams. Leeds is expected to start with Meslier in goal and Piroe as the central forward. Chelsea’s lineup likely features Petrovic as goalkeeper with Palmer, Jackson, and Sterling leading the attack.

This match presents a significant challenge for Championship-side Leeds against Premier League opposition. It is a single-elimination fixture, with the winner advancing to the FA Cup quarter-finals.

FAQs

When is the Leeds vs. Chelsea match?
The FA Cup fifth round match between Leeds United and Chelsea is on Wednesday, February 28th. The kickoff is at 7:30 pm GMT.

Who is injured for Chelsea?
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino confirmed defenders Marc Cucurella, Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Benoit Badiashile are out. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is also unavailable.

What is Leeds United’s team news?
Leeds defender Pascal Struijk is ruled out due to injury. Forward Patrick Bamford is a doubt for the match and will require a late fitness test before a decision is made.